Service Book and Hymnal of the Lutheran Church in America ‎#40

40. The first Noel the angel did say

1 The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay, keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

Refrain:
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.

2 They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the east beyond them far,
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night. [Refrain]

3 And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from country far;
To seek for a king was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went. [Refrain]

4 This star drew nigh to the northwest,
O’er Bethlehem it took its rest,
And there it did both stop and stay
Right over the place where Jesus lay. [Refrain]

5 Then entered in those wise men three
Full reverently upon their knee,
And offered there in his presence
Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense. [Refrain]

6 Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heavenly Lord,
That hath made heaven and earth of naught,
And with his Blood mankind hath bought. [Refrain]

Text Information

• First Line: The first Noel the angel did say
• Refrain First Line: Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1958
• Topic: The Church Year: Christmas
• Source: Traditional English Carol

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOWELL
• Meter: Irregular. With Refrain.
• Key: D Major
• Source: Traditional English Carol